Turkey beyond the hotel: 9 places worth seeing
Beyond its beaches and all-inclusive resorts, Turkey has ancient towns, striking natural sights and lively markets worth exploring during a trip to the country.
Turkey remains one of the most popular holiday destinations for Latvian travelers, but the country has far more to offer than hotel grounds and beaches.
History and architecture
In Antalya's old town, Kaleiçi, narrow cobbled lanes and Ottoman-era houses have survived alongside Hadrian's Gate, a Roman-period monument that stands as proof the city's history stretches back more than two thousand years. In Bodrum's harbor stands a 15th-century castle built by the Knights of St. John, now home to an underwater archaeology museum.
Natural wonders
Near Antalya, the Duden waterfalls plunge from tens of meters directly into the Mediterranean, while the wide but low Manavgat waterfall offers a gentler sight. Pamukkale is known for its white limestone terraces, formed by mineral deposits from thermal springs, and together with the ruins of ancient Hierapolis it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cappadocia draws visitors with its hot-air balloons, dwellings carved into rock, and underground cities such as Derinkuyu. A cable car on Mount Tahtalı climbs to nearly 2,365 meters, offering a panoramic view of the Gulf of Antalya, while near the village of Çıralı natural flames said to have burned for thousands of years are linked to the ancient Greek legend of the Chimera. Near Kemer, the Göynük Canyon lets visitors hike and swim in natural pools.
Shopping
No trip is complete without visiting local markets, which sell spices, sweets such as lokum and baklava, leather goods and souvenirs. Haggling over prices is a normal and expected part of the experience.
Travel agencies in Latvia allow travelers to compare tour operators' offers for trips to Turkey, helping them pick the hotel and departure date that suit them best.
